Calvary Health Care has expressed serious concerns regarding ongoing infrastructure failures at the Calvary Mater Newcastle Hospital, highlighting significant risks to patient safety. The hospital’s operational challenges stem from a public-private partnership involving the Hunter New England Local Health District and NovaCare, overseen by NSW Health and the NSW Minister for Health.
The organization has formally communicated its frustrations to both the Hunter New England Local Health District and NSW Health, requesting urgent intervention and accountability to address escalating risks. Notable issues include mould and broader maintenance deficiencies, which have resulted in two hospital wards being temporarily closed. This decision affects cancer patients in the Hunter region, as general medical patients have been transferred to other facilities to prioritize those requiring more complex care.
Impact on Patient Care and Staff
The cancellation of elective surgeries and the transfer of patients are serious disruptions, directly affecting individuals and families relying on these services. Calvary Health Care has taken all possible measures within its control to safeguard the well-being of both patients and staff, yet the organization lacks the authority to enforce necessary infrastructure repairs under the current partnership arrangements. This responsibility lies with NSW Health and its partners.
Calvary officials have stated that the ongoing failure to address these critical issues is unacceptable. Each day that NSW Health delays responding to the infrastructure needs at Calvary Mater Newcastle prolongs the strain on staff and compromises patient care. The hospital serves some of the region’s most vulnerable populations, including those undergoing cancer treatments, and its needs have been deprioritized compared to other services within the Hunter New England Local Health District.
Call for Urgent Remediation
Calvary operates under an Affiliated Hospital Organisation agreement with NSW Health, expected to last at least another six years. In light of this partnership, Calvary Health Care is urging a swift response to replace discussions surrounding long-term remediation plans with immediate action. The health and safety of the community depend on timely interventions.
In a related political context, Tim Crakanthorp, a local politician, has been criticized for celebrating achievements that many believe do not address pressing local infrastructure needs. The disparity between the city’s needs and government support highlights the challenges that Newcastle faces in securing the resources necessary for effective healthcare delivery.
As the situation at Calvary Mater Newcastle continues to evolve, the pressing need for action becomes increasingly clear. The health and welfare of patients and the sustainability of healthcare services in the region hinge on the ability of NSW Health and its partners to respond effectively to these concerns.
